[Japanese Rock] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands
In Japan, large-scale rock festivals keep increasing, and the popularity of rock bands is really on the rise! On subscription services like Spotify and Apple Music, band tracks frequently appear in playlists and rankings, so I’m sure many of you listen to them regularly.
As opportunities to encounter rock bands grow like this, I bet more and more people are getting interested in the domestic rock scene.
That said, there are so many rock bands out there that you might be thinking, “I don’t even know where to start listening…” That’s why in this article, I’ll introduce rock bands you should definitely check out, in recommended order! Start by listening to the bands introduced at the beginning of this article!
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[Japanese Rock] Recommended Japanese Rock Bands (161–170)
LULUSIX LOUNGE
This song, which starts with powerful drums, is by the Oita-born rock band SIX LOUNGE and is included on their 2018 album “Yumeutsutsu.” Its sharp sound is pure rock ’n’ roll.
With a sense of speed and husky vocals, it’s a seriously cool track.
AIMSSPECIAL OTHERS
This song is SPECIAL OTHERS’ major-label debut single, released in 2006.
It’s a fan favorite and one of the band’s signature tracks.
A poppy, upbeat instrumental, it’ll have you swaying before you know it.
Kill meSUNNY CAR WASH
This is a song by SUNNY CAR WASH, a rock band from Tochigi.
It’s included on their “Second Demo,” released in 2017.
The lyrics feel like the exact words you want to say just spill out, conveying their unadorned, natural expressiveness.
Sayonara ColorSUPER BUTTER DOG
A funk rock band that included Takashi Nagazumi of Hanaregumi and Takafumi Ikeda of Rekishi.
Despite disbanding in 2008, their masterpiece “Sayonara COLOR” touched many hearts.
Inspired by the song, Naoto Takenaka produced a film of the same name, for which it also became the theme song.
In The ZooSuchmos
If you’re looking for a stylish, Western-influenced band, Suchmos is highly recommended.
Suchmos has released many tracks that reflect influences from overseas music, and their sheer style has captivated countless listeners.
The genre they play—city pop—quickly surged in popularity, sparking a phenomenon where bands with a similar sound rose to fame as well.
to break; to get broken; to be damagedTHE NOVEMBERS
A four-piece rock band that began activities in 2005.
They’ve since honed an alternative sound and stance, asserting a uniquely commanding presence.
This track is a powerhouse packed with their raw early impulses.
Kobayashi’s vocal shouts will obliterate your brainstem—guaranteed!
Primal.THE YELLOW MONKEY
Formed in 1988, this legendary four-piece rock band enjoys enduring popularity.
They disbanded once in 2004, then resumed activities in 2016.
“Primal” is a track released before their hiatus—a bright, uplifting song dedicated to women at graduation.
It carries a touch of poignancy, and its lyrics are especially noteworthy.